Audiobook Sample
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- Title: Time of Contempt
- Author: Andrzej Sapkowski
- Narrator: Peter Kenny
- Length: 12:00:00
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 07/07/2015
- Publisher: Hachette Book Group USA
- Genre: Science Fiction & Fantasy, Epic Fantasy
- ISBN13: 9.78E+12
The first time I heard Peter Kenny’s voice bring Geralt of Rivia to life, I was hiking through the misty highlands of Guatemala, where ancient Mayan ruins whispered stories of their own. There’s something magical about listening to epic fantasy while surrounded by landscapes that feel equally mythic – it reminds me of those evenings in Oaxaca where abuelitas spun tales that blurred the lines between history and legend. Time of Contempt, the second novel in Andrzej Sapkowski’s groundbreaking Witcher saga, proves particularly well-suited to this audiobook alchemy.
Sapkowski’s narrative unfolds like a richly embroidered tapestry – one moment showing us the intimate bond between Geralt and his ward Ciri, the next pulling back to reveal the grand political machinations of mages and monarchs. Kenny’s narration captures this scope perfectly, his voice shifting effortlessly from Geralt’s world-weary growl to Yennefer’s imperious tones, from the youthful energy of Ciri to the sinister whispers of the Lodge of Sorceresses. You can almost feel the tension in the air during the Thanedd coup sequence, hear the clang of steel in the battle scenes, taste the acrid magic in the air when spells go awry.
What makes this audiobook experience particularly compelling is how Kenny handles Sapkowski’s signature blend of Eastern European folklore and contemporary sensibility. The dialogue crackles with wit and subtext, and Kenny delivers each barbed exchange with perfect timing. I found myself laughing aloud during Geralt and Dandelion’s banter while waiting for a bus in Mexico City – earning curious glances from locals who couldn’t hear the joke but could see its effect.
The novel’s exploration of found family resonates deeply with me as someone who’s collected makeshift families in hostels and remote villages across three continents. Geralt’s struggle to protect Ciri while respecting her autonomy mirrors my own experiences mentoring young writers in travel workshops – that delicate balance between guidance and freedom. Kenny’s performance captures these nuances beautifully, especially in scenes where Geralt’s stoicism cracks to reveal paternal concern.
From a technical perspective, the audiobook production is impeccable. Kenny’s mastery of accents gives each character distinct vocal textures – I particularly appreciate how he differentiates the various mages through subtle vocal choices rather than caricature. The pacing maintains tension even during philosophical digressions, and the emotional beats land with precision. My only minor critique is that some of the more elaborate fight sequences can become slightly confusing in audio format, though this is more a limitation of the medium than any fault in the performance.
Compared to other fantasy audiobooks, Time of Contempt stands out for its political sophistication. While many epic fantasies focus on clear good-versus-evil conflicts, Sapkowski presents a world where every faction has complex motivations. Kenny’s narration honors this complexity, never tipping into melodrama even during the most intense confrontations. Fans of George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire will appreciate the similar depth of intrigue, though Sapkowski’s world feels distinctly Slavic in its folklore foundations.
For listeners new to The Witcher series, I’d recommend starting with the earlier books to fully appreciate the character dynamics. However, Kenny’s performance is so engaging that even newcomers will find themselves drawn into this rich world. The audiobook particularly shines during Ciri’s coming-of-age journey – her mix of vulnerability and fierce determination comes through vividly in Kenny’s portrayal.
May your journeys through story and landscape be equally transformative,
Marcus Rivera
